Vsegda Gotov (Always Prepared)

Whenever I head into the forest I always carry at least a small rucksack or haversack containing some food, drink, and basic supplies to allow me to survive the night should I become lost or stranded. Even when I am not planning a trip to the forest, I always have a few items in my pockets that could aid my survival.

I always have a pocket knife. In this case, the VictorinoxSwiss Army 'Huntsman II'. I chose this knife because, in addition to its knife blades, it contains a saw and scissors.

Half of the day is night, so I carry a lamp (flashlight). I like a headlamp because it keeps both my hands free to work, without the need to hold the light in one hand. The ThruNite TH20 Headlamp runs on a single AA battery, can put out up to 520 lumens, and fits easily into my pocket.

Fire is essential in most every survival situation. I carry a Light My Fire Swedish FireSteel, and a simple Bic disposable lighter. I also wrap about one meter of ‘Gorilla Tape’ around the lighter.    

A pocket compass allows me to determine basic directions, and walk a generally straight line from point to point through the forest.

A couple meters of heavy twine completes the regular contents of my pockets.

As the motto of the RAS/N says "Vsegda Gotov" ("Always Prepared").